Zoe Philpott & Sarah Jackson
Founders of INÈS share their personal milestones and what they’re celebrating this season
What did you want to be when you were younger, and if it wasn't the founders of the luxury beauty platform you have today, what inspired this path?
Neither of us anticipated owning a beauty platform and is far from anything we visualised at a young age. This particular path was inspired by our lifestyles at present - our appreciation for selfcare, skin and overall wellbeing, and the lack of access to certain products here in New Zealand.
INÈS has such a beautiful aesthetic. Did you both have a strong vision in terms of its look and feel from the outset, or did this evolve over time?
Thank you! Yes, we've always been very directional and connected to the brand’s aesthetic from inception. We are both visual people and having a unique brand identity was always important to us. We wanted to create a multi-brand store that moved away from the ever-popular millennial pink and bright colours often associated with beauty.
What would your advice be to anyone dreaming of starting their own beauty brand or business?
Just start! Stop dreaming and take your first step. Try to work with people (or best friend if you're lucky enough) you're inspired by and on the same page with, as that will encourage and finesse your vision. Beauty is a crowded space but there's room; be clear about your point of difference.
Favourite product available at INÈS?
There are too many. But our current favourites include Medik8's Crystal Retinal, Doctor Rogers Restore Cream and Circumference Botanical Oil. Also, Christophe Robin's Sea Salt Scalp Scrub is so satisfying, especially in the summer months.
Favourite beauty product of all time?
NIOD Copper Amino Isolate Serum. This understated serum has been our can't-live-without for five years now.
How would you sum up this season's mood in terms of skincare?
Less is more, always. We always encourage fewer, high-quality products that are efficacious for a streamlined and effective routine.
What do you love most about autumn?
Being able to dress with more layers. Autumn and winter dressing is far better than summer.
What are you personally celebrating this season?
Zoë's wedding…in two weeks!
What will INÈS be celebrating in 2022?
Five years in business!